Bob Skinstad will only be considered for Springbok selection next year if he proves himself in the Super 14 and Currie Cup.

This is according to Bok coach Jake White, who has not ruled out taking Skinstad to the World Cup. The former Bok captain is playing for English club Richmond, and often turns out at centre. However, he has not played the game at a high level since his unsuccessful stint with the Cats in 2003.

White met with Skinstad on Monday to discuss his future, but said he had made no promises to the player.

“I am glad Bob is thinking about playing competitive rugby again. But I made it clear to him that he would have to prove himself against our best before I could consider him,” White told the Volksblad’s Hendrik Cronje.

Cobus Visagie is another UK-based player being considered for Springbok selection in 2007. The tighthead prop will play against his countrymen for the World XV on Saturday, after White had tried to make him available for the Boks.

“I wanted to see how well he would fit into the Springbok team. But I understand that he did not have the option of deciding for which team he wanted to play,” White said.